Roller shutters are an excellent choice for enhancing your property’s security and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re a business owner seeking to protect your premises or a homeowner looking to install domestic roller shutters for added privacy and safety, the decision to install these shutters can be a significant improvement project. However, a common dilemma is whether to embark on this journey alone or seek professionals’ expertise. This comprehensive guide will explore both paths, helping you make an informed decision.
What is a Roller Shutter?
A roller shutter, or a sectional overhead door or roller door, is a type of door or window shutter consisting of many horizontal slats (or sometimes bars or web systems) hinged together. To open the door, it is raised, and to close it, it is lowered. On large doors, the action may be motorized. It offers protection from wind, theft, fire, and rain.
Roller shutters come in various forms, including electric roller shutters, manual roller shutters, roller shutter garage doors, and external shutters for windows. They offer a wide range of benefits, from sound insulation and energy efficiency to a boost in property aesthetics, thanks to their availability in a range of colors and optional extras.
Types of Roller Shutters
- Electric Roller Shutters: Operated by remote controls, these shutters offer convenience and ease of use
- Manual Roller Shutters: These require physical effort to open and close but are often more cost-effective.
- Roller Shutter Garage Doors: Specifically designed for garages, these shutters provide robust security.
- External Window Shutters: Ideal for windows, they offer privacy and protection against external elements.
Benefits of Roller Shutters
- Security: Roller shutters are a formidable barrier against intruders, making them popular among business owners.
- Energy Efficiency: They help maintain the temperature inside, leading to lower energy bills.
- Sound Insulation: These shutters can significantly reduce noise pollution.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A wide range of colours and designs enhance your property’s look.
How can DIY Installation be?
DIY installation of roller shutters can be challenging but rewarding if you have the right skills and tools. Here’s an overview of what the process might entail:
Process of DIY installation:
- Preparation: Before beginning, it’s crucial to understand the installation process thoroughly. This might involve studying the manufacturer’s instructions, watching tutorial videos, or consulting with experts.
- Measuring and Ordering: Accurately measure the space where the roller shutter will be installed. Getting these measurements right is essential to ensure the shutter fits perfectly.
- Gathering Tools and Materials: Depending on the type of shutter (manual or electric), you’ll need different tools. Commonly required tools include a drill, screwdrivers, level, measuring tape, and possibly electrical tools for wiring electric shutters.
- Safety Precautions: Ensure you have safety gear like gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat, especially when working at heights or with electrical components.
Steps for DIY Installation
- Unpacking and Checking Components: After receiving your roller shutter, inspect all components against the provided list to ensure nothing is missing or damaged.
- Mounting the Roller Shutter involves attaching the roller shutter to the wall or window frame. It’s crucial to ensure it’s level and securely fixed.
- Installing the Guide Rails: The guide rails must be aligned perfectly to ensure the smooth operation of the shutter.
- Setting Up the Shutter Mechanism: For manual shutters, this involves installing the winding mechanism. You’ll need to install and connect the motor for electric shutters, which may require basic electrical knowledge.
- Testing: Once installed, test the shutter thoroughly to ensure it operates smoothly and correctly.
- Finishing Touches: This might include sealing any gaps and applying any finishing aesthetic touches.
Can Hiring a Professional Might Be the Better Choice?
Professional installation of roller shutters involves a process that is typically more streamlined, efficient, and reliable compared to DIY installations. Here’s an overview of what you can expect when you hire professionals to install your roller shutters:
Initial Consultation and Assessment
- Site Visit: Professionals usually start with a site visit to assess your needs and the specifics of the installation site. This includes measuring the dimensions where the shutters will be installed and evaluating any potential challenges.
- Recommendations: Based on the assessment, they can recommend the most suitable type of roller shutter for your needs, whether it’s manual, electric, garage door, or external window shutter.
- Quotation: After the assessment, you’ll receive a detailed quote covering the cost of the shutters and the installation service.
Steps for Installation by Experts
- Scheduling: Once you agree to the quote and terms, the date and time for the installation will be scheduled.
- Preparation: The professional team will prepare all necessary tools and equipment. This includes everything needed for a safe and efficient installation, from ladders and drills to electrical tools for electric shutters.
- Removing Old Shutters (if applicable): If you’re replacing old shutters, the first step will be to carefully remove them without damaging the surrounding structure.
- Installing the Roller Shutter: The new shutters will be installed meticulously. This involves securing the shutter box, aligning and fixing guide rails, and ensuring everything is level and properly positioned.
- Electrical Work (for Electric Shutters): For electric roller shutters, this step involves wiring and connecting the motor, setting up control systems (like remote controls), and ensuring all electrical components are safely and correctly installed.
- Testing: After installation, the professionals will test the shutters to ensure they operate smoothly and efficiently. This includes checking the balance, alignment, and response to controls.
- Final Adjustments: Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure optimal performance.
What are the Advantages of Professional Installation?
The advantages of opting for professional installation of roller shutters are significant and can significantly impact the overall success and longevity of the installation. Now let’s examine these advantages in more depth:
- Quality of Work: Professionals have the training and experience to ensure that the installation is done correctly. This expertise is crucial for the shutters to function optimally and last longer.
- Problem-Solving: They are equipped to handle unexpected issues during installation, such as structural challenges or unique window shapes.
- Customization: Professionals can also advise on the best type of shutter for your specific needs and ensure that any customizations fit perfectly.
- Risk Management: Installation of roller shutters, especially electric ones, can involve risks like working at heights or dealing with electrical wiring. Professionals are trained to manage these risks effectively.
- Compliance with Standards: They ensure that the installation complies with safety standards and building codes, which is crucial for legal compliance and safety.
- Efficiency: Due to their experience, professionals can complete the installation much faster than a DIY approach. This efficiency saves you time and minimizes disruption to your daily routine.
- Convenience: Hiring professionals means you don’t have to allocate your time and effort to the task, freeing you up to focus on other responsibilities or leisure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between DIY and professional installation of roller shutters is a decision that impacts not just the functionality but also the safety and longevity of the shutters. While DIY projects have their appeal, the expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind offered by our professionals at ADV Shutters Ltd are invaluable.
Our experienced team ensures that your roller shutters are installed with precision and care, offering long-term reliability and performance. This choice secures your property and adds to its aesthetic and functional value, making it a wise investment for homeowners and business owners.
